Marlena Roberts was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland where she began dancing at the age of 3. She attended Baltimore School for the Arts to begin her formal ballet and modern training and recently graduated from the University of Arizona with a BFA in Dance in May 2024. During her time at both schools, Marlena had the privilege of training under distinguished choreographers and instructors, including Thang Dao, Hayley Meier, Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell, Barry Hughson, and Christopher Compton. Marlena has performed many notable works such as “Waltz Girl” in George Balanchine’s “Serenade”, and Gerald Arpino’s “Light Rain.” Marlena has also attended numerous summer and winter intensives including BalletX, Philadelphia Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Carolina Ballet and Washington Ballet. She is eager and excited to begin her professional career at Rochester City Ballet for their 2024/2025 season!